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So long Burnham Market... Wells-next-the-Sea is the hottest destination in North Norfolk

Alamy Stock Photo
Alamy Stock Photo

A seaside destination with an old worldly town surrounded by wildlife and wilderness... How this little place straddles the divide between its historical past and evolving present just adds to its intrigue and charm.

EAT

The sweet town of Wells-next-the-Sea is all cobbled alleys and narrow back streets. On Staithe Street you’ll find the Picnic Hut, famous for its traditional Norfolk ice cream and fairtrade coffee, while on The Quay is the much-loved Platten’s chippie.

There’s also no shortage of glorious country pubs in the area — The Globe Inn (below), overlooking the town’s grassy Georgian square, serves modern British fare that’s perfect for Sunday lunch.

(Alamy Stock Photo)
(Alamy Stock Photo)

DAY TRIP

Your first port of call is to get yourself to the beach, a vast stretch of golden sand open from dawn till dusk and dog-friendly. Seals are a regular attraction in the local waters, but if you fancy getting up close and personal with a flippered friend, there are also daily scheduled boat trips setting off from Blakeney Point.

(Alamy Stock Photo)
(Alamy Stock Photo)

SHOP

North Norfolk has a strong brewing heritage — visit The Real Ale Shop (left) to take home a bottle (or 12) of one of the local brews. For the sweet-toothed, there’s charming Golding’s, which specialises in traditional confectionery. And don’t miss ML Walsingham — two floors of old fashioned hardware goodies, from fishing tackle to buckets and spades.

STAY

Great Barn Farm does exactly what it says on the tin and a whole lot more. No matter the size of your party, there is a place for you. Though it boasts multiple accommodations, it is still a working farm, surrounded by 1,350 acres of land. If it’s just the two of you, snuggle up like a pair of naughty grooms in the Tack Rooms, but if the whole clan has tagged along, try the Cattle Sheds.

Though the animals have long gone, the rustic nature of their dwellings remains. A week at Great Barn Farm starts from £400 for a one bed barn, up to £3,300 in a large barn. (greatbarnfarm.co.uk) In the market for more modern digs? Then look to the Modern House, which champions holiday properties with serious architectural credentials. Perfect fodder for holiday #Instastories. (themodernhouse.com)